MAA Executive Director Michael Pearson, Dr. Mohammad K. Azarian, and MAA President Jenna Carpenter at MAA MathFest 2025.

Dr. Mohammad K. Azarian, professor of mathematics at the University of Evansville, earned his Ph.D. from Saint Louis University in 1985. Through leadership with the AMS and the Indiana Section of MAA, as well as his work as a reviewer and journal editor, he helps mathematicians and students explore the field with curiosity, purpose, and integrity.

MAA: How has the MAA impacted your career or growth as a mathematician?

Dr. Azarian: My relationship with MAA started at the same time as my professional career during the 1985-86 school year. Over the years, I have been able to take advantage of the numerous resources that MAA offers such as professional meetings, publications, teaching resources, plus networking opportunities. Membership in the MAA has kept me up to date on the news and events of the profession, which in turn has helped me grow in my mathematical career, specifically as an informed and well-connected classroom teacher.

MAA: Can you share your journey into mathematics — what first drew you to the field?

Dr. Azarian: In elementary school, I had a genuine interest and aptitude in posing and solving elementary geometric and arithmetic problems. Fortunately, I was able to build on this skill. After my first year in college, I received a full scholarship to continue my degree. I also received a monthly stipend and became the top student in my undergraduate program. This distinction afforded me a scholarship to the U.S. to pursue my graduate education.

MAA: What has inspired you most in your mathematical journey, and why?

Dr. Azarian: As someone who gardens, I have always been inspired by watching a seed grow from being invisible under the soil to becoming a flourishing plant. Likewise, I am equally inspired when I see the learning curve happen in my students over the course of a semester. To be able to play a part in the intellectual growth of young minds sustains my energy and gives me a sense of contributing to society: a feeling of privilege and pride and one that I do not take lightly.

MAA: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received — mathematical or
otherwise?

Dr. Azarian: Stay focused and remember that setbacks are temporary and can be used as learning moments.

MAA: What advice would you give to students or early-career mathematicians just
finding their place in the field?

Dr. Azarian: In mathematics, you must be an active listener, an active participant, and an active reader. Above and beyond your advisor/mentor, work with a peer group for discussion and brainstorming. Be prepared for criticism and failure. Be open to opportunities to learn about new topics and see where your research takes you.

MAA: What about MAA’s mission or community inspires your continued support?

Dr. Azarian: The MAA is the only mathematics organization that strives to promote the advancement of mathematics at all educational levels. The MAA’s focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion speaks to its willingness to embrace global students, teachers, and scholars to lead the profession now and well into the future. This perspective helps to create the camaraderie that is fundamental to MAA’s core values.

MAA: What do you hope your support helps make possible for others?

Dr. Azarian: My hope is that any support I provide will encourage others to support MAA in their own way while continuing to foster an atmosphere of collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, students, and society at large.

MAA: Do you have a favorite memory, moment, or person from your time
with MAA?

Dr. Azarian: Having attended MAA meetings for over four decades, I still experience the same thrill every time I attend an MAA gathering. I get to catch up with my colleagues, and I always learn something new.

MAA: Is there a message you’d like to share with fellow members or those
considering joining MAA?

Dr. Azarian: Being a part of a professional organization such as MAA during one’s career cannot be underestimated. The lifelong collaborations and professional relationships that one develops through MAA can enhance one’s teaching, research, and service components of an enriched mathematical career. I cannot imagine being a mathematics educator in the USA and not being part of a vibrant mathematics community like MAA.

Feeling inspired by Dr. Azarian? Join MAA’s community of supporters who believe in uplifting mathematicians at every stage of their journey.